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A recent protest in Dublin saw demonstrators marching from the city hall to the office of the Irish director of public prosecutions (DPP), voicing their support for Nikita Hand, who recently achieved a civil court victory. This event coincided with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, underscoring the urgency of addressing gender-based violence.
Members of the protest displayed various signs in support of Ms. Hand, emphasizing the significance of her victory as a message to other victims that they, too, possess a voice. Ms. O’Brien, a participant, expressed her admiration for Hand and highlighted the importance of her legal success in encouraging other survivors to pursue justice.
The protest was organized by ROSA, a socialist feminist group, focusing not only on celebrating victories but also on the ongoing struggles faced by many women. The march route along the River Liffey symbolized a call for change, as protesters raised alarm over the DPP’s decision not to prosecute Conor McGregor following allegations of rape made by Ms. Hand after an incident in 2018.
The legal standards for criminal cases are notably higher than those for civil cases. In criminal proceedings, the burden of proof lies “beyond reasonable doubt,” contrasting with civil cases, where it is assessed “on the balance of probabilities.” Consequently, many attendees expressed dismay at the DPP’s stance, which they regarded as indicative of broader systemic issues affecting women’s safety.
‘Women don’t feel safe’
Donna McCarthy, who traveled to Dublin from County Kerry, voiced her outrage over the treatment of Ms. Hand, labeling it “absolutely disgraceful.” She emphasized the need for a collective effort to support women who have experienced similar traumas, insisting that even small victories necessitate a larger fight for those whose voices remain unheard.
Another participant, Deirdre De Feu, articulated the widespread sentiment of insecurity among women, stating that many do not feel safe in public spaces or even at home. She encouraged solidarity and support for all women in need.
Joining the chorus of support, Donna Heaney from the survivors’ group Sisi lamented the DPP’s inability to proceed with a prosecution, declaring that while some justice was achieved, it did not suffice for many victims who experience similar circumstances without recourse.
In 2020, the DPP informed Ms. Hand that there was “insufficient evidence” for a criminal prosecution and that a reasonable prospect of conviction did not exist. This decision led Ms. Hand to seek a reconsideration, fearing that her case was handled differently due to the suspect’s fame.
In response to inquiries about the DPP’s choice not to pursue charges, outgoing Irish justice minister Helen McEntee emphasized the importance of an independent judiciary, asserting that respect for this independence is crucial within the legal system.
Source
www.bbc.com